Gemini Expands European Footprint With New Staking & Derivatives Products

Users in the European Economic Area (EEA) can now stake ETH and SOL, and trade perpetual contracts denominated in USDC.

• Adds USDC-denominated perpetual contracts to its derivatives suite
• Expansion follows MiCA approval in Malta (Aug) + MiFID II authorization (May)
• Aims to be a top-tier exchange in Europe with full product suite (spot, staking, derivatives)
• Crypto spot trading volumes dropped 32% in H1 2025, while derivatives hit $20.2T
• EU staking participation surged 39% in 2025, ETH deposits up 28% YoY
• Gemini recently filed for a US IPO targeting up to $317M

Crypto exchange Gemini, founded by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, has rolled out new staking and derivatives services across the European Economic Area. Users can now stake Ether and Solana, while also trading perpetual contracts denominated in USDC. The launch follows Gemini’s regulatory milestones, including MiCA approval in Malta in August and MiFID II authorization in May, strengthening its positioning in the EU market.

Mark Jennings, Gemini’s head of Europe, said the company now offers a “full suite of products — spot exchange, staking, and perpetuals — in one interface,” making Gemini a strong contender among European exchanges.

The timing aligns with broader market shifts. Spot crypto trading volumes dropped 32% in the first half of 2025, while derivatives surged to $20.2 trillion, highlighting investor appetite for advanced financial instruments. Jennings noted that derivatives are expected to reach $23 trillion globally by the end of the year, as traders look for hedging and leveraged opportunities.

Meanwhile, Europe has also seen a boom in staking since MiCA came into force. According to CoinLaw, EU staking participation rose 39% in 2025, with Ethereum deposits alone jumping 28% year-over-year to hit $90 billion. Jennings said Gemini Staking will appeal to professional retail and institutional investors seeking passive income through a single, regulated exchange platform.

The announcement comes as Gemini filed for a U.S. IPO, with plans to raise up to $317 million by selling 16.67 million shares at $17–$19 each.

Final Thought

With regulatory approval, derivatives momentum, and rising institutional staking in Europe, Gemini is positioning itself as a serious competitor in the EU crypto market — while preparing to go public in the U.S.